Press-On Nail Application Guide

For best results, please read all instructions before beginning.

  • Step 1: Prep Your Natural Nails

    Proper prep is essential for long-lasting wear.

    Start with clean, dry nails.

    Remove all polish, oils, or residue

    Avoid water or lotions for at least 1–2 hours before application.

    Lightly buff the nail surface using a 180 grit buffer to remove shine.

    Gently push back cuticles with an orangewood stick.

    Remove any loose skin or debris (do not use cuticle remover).

    Clean nails with an alcohol prep pad (70% or higher) to fully dehydrate the nail.

  • Step 2: Apply Your Press-Ons

    Using Adhesive Tabs

    Select the correct size tab for each nail.

    Apply tab directly to your natural nail.

    Press the nail firmly into place.

    ✔ Best for short-term wear or easy removal

    Using Liquid Nail Glue

    Recommended for longer wear

    Work one nail at a time.

    Apply a thin layer of glue to your natural nail.

    Starting at a 45° angle, place the press-on at the cuticle.

    Slowly press down, pushing out any air.

    Hold firmly for 30 seconds.

    ⚠️ Tip: If wearing for only a few days, you may skip buffing and heavy prep.

  • Step 3: Set & Seal

    Avoid water, lotions, or oils for at least 1 hour.

    Treat your nails gently for the first few hours while the adhesive fully cures.

    Pro Tip:
    For the longest wear and best adhesion, take your time with prep. Proper application = flawless results and reusable nails.

FAQs for Application

  • This is usually caused by oils on the nail, improper prep, or incorrect sizing.
    Be sure to:

    • Fully dehydrate the nail with alcohol.

    • Lightly buff the nail surface.

    • Use the correct nail size.

    • Apply firm pressure for 30 seconds.

    For longer wear, liquid glue is recommended.

  • Downturned or curved nails benefit from:

    • Keeping natural nails short

    • Using a thicker, gap-filling glue or adhesive tabs
      These help fill the curve and improve contact with the press-on.

  • Concave or “ski-slope” nails require extra support.

    • Shorten natural nails.

    • Use a thicker glue or adhesive tabs.

    • Apply slowly to avoid air pockets.

    This ensures a stronger, longer-lasting bond.

  • Flat nail beds typically do best with:

    • Thicker, gap-filling glue

    • Less sculpted press-on styles

    This helps prevent lifting at the edges.

  • If you experience sensitivity:

    • Use adhesive tabs instead of liquid glue.

    • Always patch test new products.

    • Wait 24–48 hours to check for irritation.

    If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately.

  • Yes, with the right prep.

    • Push back cuticles gently.

    • Dehydrate nails thoroughly.

    • Choose shorter nail lengths for best adhesion.

    This creates more surface area for the press-on to adhere.

  • For shorter or wider thumbs:

    • Choose short, wider nail shapes.

    • File the sidewalls or cuticle area slightly for a custom fit.

    This helps create a more natural, custom look.

  • For fragile nails:

    • Use adhesive tabs instead of glue.

    • Avoid strong liquid adhesives.

    • Be gentle during removal.

    This protects your natural nails and allows for safer wear.

Press-On Nail Removal Guide

For the Best Results, Be Gentle & Patient

Proper removal helps protect your natural nails and allows your press-ons to be reused.


If You Used Adhesive Tabs

Best time to remove: After a warm bath or shower

  1. Soak nails in warm water with a little soap and oil.

  2. Gently slide an orangewood stick under the edge of the nail.

  3. Slowly lift — never force.

  4. Remove one nail at a time to keep them in order.

  5. Clean the back of each nail with alcohol and store on the original card for reuse.

If You Used Liquid Nail Glue

Best time to remove: After a shower or warm soak

  1. Soak nails in warm (not hot) water mixed with oil and mild dish soap for 15–20 minutes.

  2. Use a cuticle stick to gently loosen the edges.

  3. Only remove when the nail begins to lift easily — never force it.

  4. If needed, continue soaking until the nail releases naturally.

After Removal Care

• Clean natural nails and press-ons with alcohol.
• Gently buff away any remaining glue.
• Buff the back of press-ons carefully before storing.
• Return nails to the backing card in order for future use.

This video shows how to gently soak off your press ons when using glue tabs.

Removal Troubleshooting

·      Take nails off after hot shower.

·      Soak in olive oil or vegetable oil for 30 minutes.

·      Use a special press-on remover solution, preferably one that does not have acetone so it does not damage the press-ons.

·      NOTE: If none of this works, then soaking in acetone is the last option as it will damage your press-ons. Be patient and again, gently remove the press-ons.